Board of Directors Project Covid Surge in February, Decide Against Gathering

The Soaring Society of America has canceled its annual convention, believing that the late winter period will not see measureable pandemic recovery amid increasing cases from state to state.

In an email to attendees, executive director of the association, Denise Layton, described the board's thought process. 

"Sometimes hard decisions have to be made for the safety and welfare of our members, and this is one such time. After many weeks gathering data and careful consideration, the Board feels with the COVID pandemic, and numbers expected to rise in mid-February, it is not wise to have a large gathering at this time.

We are working to postpone the convention to a date this fall, or early next year when we feel it will be safer to gather."

The Center for Disease Control released its January 3rd forecast for the near future, anticipating a weekly death forecast for the 1st week of February between 20,000 and 30,000, with the highest confidence around 26,000 fatalities. November to January have seen around 1/3rd of that total, with totals week to week hovering around 10,000. The pandemic has continued to drag on, and no one is too eager to be the cause of an outbreak and its attendant baggage. By now, many aeronautical industry personnel have experienced the break in routine, the drop in productivity, and the hassle that comes with contact tracing and quarantine initiatives. Until someone finds a niche for air-ambulance soaring aircraft, it remains a non-essential sport, and the board seems to find that caution is the more responsible road to take. 

The Soaring Society of America is the biggest body for the sport in the United States, representing the collective interests of all members of the sport. The Association acts as a network for membership to share opportunities, enhance safety, and promote proficiency throughout the country. Their convention is the premier place for soaring and gliding enthusiasts to touch base and reach out across the industry. Would-be 2022 attendees are assured that those who have pre-paid for their booths and floor space will be granted space in the 2023 show to be held in Reno, Nevada. Once next year's dates are set, participants will be notified. 

FMI: www.ssa.org